Gazette on COVID-19 safety guidelines issued

Health Minister Pavithradevi Wanniarachchi, yesterday signed a gazette that laid down COVID-19 safety guidelines, including social distancing, hand hygiene and movement restrictions as legislation.

According to Wanniarachchi, courts can now punish offenders with a fine of up to Rs. 10,000 and/or six months’ imprisonment. The gazette makes it a legal requirement to wear face mask and maintain social distancing in places where the public gathers.

She added that laws on the restriction of movement, quarantine and transport have also been strengthened in the gazette. A statement issued by the Health Ministry states that all persons who enter a place of business or employment will be required to wear a face mask and a two-meter distance must be maintained between people.

All persons entering a place of employment must have their temperature monitored and have their information, including name, contact number and National Identity Card number entered into a log. Sufficient hand hygiene facilities with disinfectant must also be provided.

The Health Ministry added that workplaces will be required to operate within limitations put on the number of employees and visitors allowed into the premises.

Wanniarachchi said, “The Government considers it a responsibility to safeguard the health of the country’s people and as such has decided to pass certain safety guidelines provided by the Health Ministry as legislation.”